Acne Medications
What does erythromycin do?
Erythromycin is another antibiotic that stops bacteria from growing.
Erythromycin sometimes is used to treat acne.
What should I know when taking erythromycin?
Always ask your doctor prior to using other products for your skin when
taking erythromycin. This also goes for other prescribed medications,
harsh and abrasive cleansers, over-the-counter medicines, make-up, or
perfumes. People have reported burning as the number one occurring side
effect. Other side effects include itching, redness, peeling, dryness,
and oiliness
Isotretinoin - Accutane
What is Isotretinoin?
Isotretinoin is produced under the brand name of "Accutane."
Isotretinoin originates from vitamin A which is taken in a pill for 15
to 20 weeks. Usually a doctor will prescribe isotretinoin for anyone
suffering a severe case of acne and when no other treatments seem to
work. 15 to 20 weeks of isotretinoin has helped sufferers with complete
clearing for long periods.
What does isotretinoin do?
Isotretinoin reduces the quantity of oil created by your oil glands.
What should I know when taking isotretinoin?
When taking Accutane(or isotretinoin) in any quantity while pregnant,
there exists a very high risk of having a deformed infant. Women who are
pregnant or those who might become pregnant when following a treatment
must not take Accutane. There are other side effects such as dry skin,
dry and cracked lips, dry mouth and nose, muscle and joint aches.
Salicylic Acid
What is Salicylic Acid?
Salicylic Acid is a beta hydroxy acid that is derived from the bark of
the willow tree. Beta hydroxy acids have a bigger molecule as opposed to
their cousin--alpha hydroxy acids.
What does Salicylic Acid do?
The bigger molecule size helps to keep the beta hydroxy acid on the skin
surface, allowing it to penetrate more effectively and exfoliate inside
the pore. This action inside the pores is what make it a great exfoliant
for application on acne and acne-prone areas of your skin.
Who should use Salicylic Acid?
Salicylic Acid works ideally for those with on acne-prone and sensitive
skin types. Patients with sensitive skin who are unable to tolerate
alpha hydroxy acids might discover that they can use salicylic acid with
positive results.
WARNING: Salicylic Acid to date has not been tested on pregnant
women; its safety while pregnant is not known.